Des Plaines

First settled by French explorers in the 1600s, the suburb of Des Plaines is a transit hub located just north of O’HareInternational Airport, with affordable housing and low unemployment. Families can take advantage of the Mystic Waters Family Aquatic Center, the 18-hole golf course at Lake Opeka, and the trails and green spaces lining the banks of the Des Plaines River, which runs along the town’s east side. Culture buffs will enjoy the art guild and Big Noise Theatre, as well as the community concert series, public library events, and a historical museum. — time.com/money/collection/best-places-to-live-by-region-2017/4929076/des-plaines-illinois